20 Best Summer Research Opportunities for High School Students in 2025
Summer research opportunities offer high school students a practical pathway to explore their academic interests while also gaining experience in real-world settings. As a student, participating in research programs will not only help you develop practical skills and build industry connections but will also give you an affordable option to dive into independent research projects.
These programs, offered by top colleges and organizations, will allow you to work closely with mentors and professionals, thus helping you to foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
In this blog, we have narrowed down the 20 best summer research opportunities for high school students in 2025, ensuring a range of choices to match diverse interests.
1. Johns Hopkins Engineering Innovation Pre-College Programs: The Sustainable Energy Engineering (SEE) course
This immersive program empowers high school students to delve into the science of sustainable energy and engineering innovation. As a student, you will explore the principles behind renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, and learn how traditional energy production methods impact our environment. Through hands-on projects, you will analyze real energy consumption data, design prototype solutions for efficient power distribution, and evaluate the feasibility of integrating renewable technologies into existing systems.
Led by JHU faculty and graduate students with expertise in sustainable energy, the program offers intensive coursework in advanced math and lab-based science, ensuring that students gain practical research skills they can apply in future studies. Participants leave with a comprehensive portfolio that demonstrates their understanding of sustainable energy challenges and innovations.
Location: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Approximately 18-24 students per class
Dates: June 30 – July 25
Application deadline: Create an account and apply here. You can request more information about the dates and deadlines here.
Eligibility: Current high school student or recent high school graduate; for residential participants, born between July 26, 2007 and June 29, 2010; strong math and science records; completed Algebra II and a science lab course.
2. Stanford Medical Youth Science Program (SMYSP)
This intensive five-week program immerses eligible high school juniors in the practical and analytical aspects of medicine and public health. You will gain firsthand clinical experience by shadowing physicians and engaging in structured hospital internships, where you’ll learn about diagnostic procedures, patient care, and the operational dynamics of healthcare facilities. Students also collaborate on a public health disparities research project, where they analyze data on issues such as racial inequities in health outcomes and develop evidence-based solutions through research papers, academic posters, and presentations.
Faculty-led seminars cover epidemiology, healthcare policy, and social determinants of health, providing deep insights into the challenges of modern medicine. By the end of the program, you will have built a robust foundation in medical research and have gained critical skills in data analysis and scientific communication!
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited, competitive program for eligible students.
Dates: June 23 – July 25; Apply here.
Application deadline: March 17
Eligibility: Low-income, first-generation high school juniors residing in Northern California.
3. WIE RISE! A Virtual Summer Research Program
WIE RISE! introduces high school students to the core principles of engineering research in a dynamic, virtual environment. Over the course of a week, you will explore various engineering disciplines by virtually touring active research labs at the University of Maryland, where you’ll gain insights into experimental design and data analysis techniques.
The program includes hands-on at-home experiments that demonstrate key concepts such as circuit analysis, material testing, and computational modeling, fostering a deeper understanding of how research translates into practical engineering solutions. Interaction with current Maryland Engineering undergraduates provides an authentic glimpse into everyday research practices and problem-solving strategies.
Location: Virtual
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited spots available
Dates: July 28 – August 1; Apply here.
Application deadline: Rolling until final deadline May 15
Eligibility: Rising 9th–12th graders; designed to encourage women in engineering, but open to all.
4. Vanderbilt High School Summer Research Institute (REHSS)
The REHSS program offers rising high school seniors a rigorous 6-week research internship immersed in real laboratory work at Vanderbilt University or Vanderbilt University Medical Center. As a student, you will develop independent research projects under the close mentorship of experienced research faculty, focusing on experimental design, data collection, and critical analysis within STEM fields.
Throughout the program, you will learn how to formulate research questions, utilize advanced laboratory techniques, and interpret scientific data. This culminates in a symposium presentation that highlights your findings to peers and professionals. You will also have the opportunity to submit your research for external competitions and publications.
Location: Vanderbilt University / Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Approximately 20-30 students
Dates: May 7 – July 3
Application deadline: Spring Semester Deadline (contact your ISR scientist).
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors; participants must be enrolled in the ISR program at Stratford STEM Magnet, Hillsboro, or John Overton High Schools; strong academic records in math and science are required.
5. American Museum of Natural History High School Research Internship (SRMP)
The SRMP at the American Museum of Natural History enables New York City high school students to engage in a year-long, paid research internship that builds practical scientific skills. As an intern, you will work alongside museum scientists to learn laboratory techniques such as DNA extraction, astronomical data analysis, and programming in Python and R, all while exploring unique projects ranging from the study of ogre-faced spiders to archaeological inquiries into ancient diets.
The program emphasizes developing proficiency in scientific methods, data interpretation, and effective communication through writing and presentations. By blending technical training with collaborative project work, this comprehensive program prepares participants for advanced study and future research opportunities.
Location: American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Approximately 30-50 students
Dates: Year-long; August – June
Application deadline: March 8; Apply here.
Eligibility: 10th or 11th graders; students must have maintained strong academic performance over the last three semesters and be enrolled in a designated science program (AIS, SNP, EAP, LANG, SAP, HE³AT) or attend a partner school.
6. Northwestern University High School Research Program (NURPH)
NURPH is a seven-week, paid research scholarship designed to empower underrepresented Chicago-area high school students in the field of Materials Science and Engineering. As a participant, you will work directly in university laboratories, engaging in original research projects that tackle challenges in energy, medicine, and computing through hands-on experiments and data analysis.
Each week, the program combines 20 hours of lab work with 5 hours of professional development and another 5 hours of materials science education. With full funding and a $4,000 stipend, NURPH will allow you to connect with experienced mentors and develop key STEM skills. By the end of the program, you will present your findings, turning your research experience into a strong foundation for future STEM projects.
Location: Northwestern University, IL
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Approximately 20-30 students
Dates: June 23 – August 8
Application deadline: March 1. Fill out this form to apply.
Eligibility: High school students from sophomore to senior levels (priority given to juniors); no previous research experience required.
7. Carnegie Mellon Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)
SAMS immerses high school students in a rigorous STEM curriculum that blends virtual skill-building with a 6-week, on-campus experience at Carnegie Mellon University. Before arriving, you will have to participate in a Jumpstart program on June 16-17 to develop essential quantitative and computational skills. During the residential phase, you will engage in intensive coursework covering math, science, and computer-based research methods, and work on a STEM research project under the guidance of experienced faculty and mentors.
The curriculum also includes weekly writing workshops focused on college application preparation and a “Student to Scholar” course that will help you identify potential future academic and career paths. The program concludes with a day-long symposium where students present their research projects, fostering both technical proficiency and effective communication skills.
Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Varies; typically a selective group of around 80 scholars.
Dates: June 21 – August 2
Application deadline: March 1. Apply here.
Eligibility: High school students (11th and 12th graders) with demonstrated academic excellence in math and science who are selected based on merit.
8. Harvard Secondary School Program (SSP)
Harvard Summer School’s Secondary School Program offers motivated high school students a chance to experience college-level courses in a 7-week format. You can choose between residential, online, or commuting options to suit your needs while earning college credit from courses taught by Harvard faculty and visiting professors.
You can delve into a variety of academic disciplines — from STEM to humanities — gaining deeper insights into subjects that may influence your future career path. The program emphasizes critical thinking, time management, and scholarly research through small-class discussions and collaborative projects. Social and college readiness events further support students in balancing academic rigor with personal growth, ensuring they leave with increased confidence in their ability to succeed in colleges.
Location: Harvard University, Cambridge, MA (Residential, Online, or Commuter)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Varies; typically small, competitive cohorts.
Dates: June 21 – August 9
Application deadline: April 9; Apply here.
Eligibility: High school students graduating in 2025, 2026, or 2027; must be at least 16 by June 21 and not turn 19 before July 31.
9. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes
Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes provide an immersive online classroom experience where high school students explore advanced topics through live, interactive courses. With over 70 options spanning art, computer science, mathematics, social justice, philosophy, engineering, and more, each course offers in-depth exploration of subjects beyond the typical high school curriculum.
As a student here, you will develop analytical and problem-solving skills by engaging in real-time discussions, collaborative projects, and course-related presentations with peers and expert instructors. The program emphasizes a global learning community, where students build connections with bright, like-minded individuals from around the world. Each course is designed to sharpen academic skills and offer a genuine preview of collegiate-level studies.
Location: Virtual (via live online classes).
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Varies by course; typically small cohorts for personalized learning.
Dates:
Session One: June 16 – June 27
Session Two: July 7 – July 18
Application deadline: March 20; Apply here.
Eligibility: Students in grades 8–11; note that some courses may have additional grade-specific restrictions.
10. NASA OSTEM High School Internship Program
NASA’s High School Internship Program, managed by the Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM), offers paid research internships that allow high school and college-level students to work alongside NASA scientists, engineers, and professionals. Interns gain research experience in areas such as spacecraft design, aeronautics, robotics, and data analysis from space missions. This is made possible by giving you the chance to work on specific projects that contribute to NASA’s mission of advancing science and exploration.
As a participant, you will learn practical skills including software development, laboratory experimentation, and simulation modeling under direct mentorship — enhancing your technical expertise and professional readiness. The program also includes networking opportunities, project presentations, and career development workshops designed to build a strong foundation for future STEM pursuits.
Location: Various NASA Centers (in-person and hybrid opportunities)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Varies by center; typically around 30-50 interns per session.
Dates: Summer Session (10 weeks) | Fall/Spring Session (16 weeks)
Application deadline: Summer 2025: February 28 | Fall 2025: May 16
Eligibility: High school and college students with strong academic records in STEM and a demonstrated passion for research.
11. Rice University Summer Scholars Academy
The Rice University Summer Science Academy offers an immersive pre-college experience for rising high school juniors and seniors, with multiple cohort options ranging from 3 to 10 weeks. As a student, you have the option to select from a diverse array of college-level courses — including physics with lab work, environmental studies, health and wellness, and even unique subjects like the business of college athletics. You will engage in hands-on laboratory sessions, interactive discussions, and collaborative projects led by Rice faculty, which build critical problem-solving and communication skills.
The program also aims to foster a vibrant academic community, as high school scholars and visiting undergraduates network and share insights during class projects and group activities. This experience is designed to equip students with both subject-specific expertise and the confidence needed for future academic pursuits.
Location: Rice University, Houston, TX
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; typically a select group from rising high school juniors and seniors
Dates: Various 3-10 week blocks from May 12 – August 15
Application deadline: May 5; Apply here.
Eligibility: High school students in the classes of 2025, 2026, or 2027; approved for rising juniors and seniors; prerequisites may apply.
12. University of Texas at Austin High School Research Academy (HSRA)
The HSRA provides an intensive five-week, non-residential research experience at the University of Texas at Austin, where high school students work in active College of Natural Sciences laboratories. You will delve into projects spanning biochemistry, genetics, neuroscience, data analytics, and environmental science, learning precise laboratory techniques and data analysis methods from UT faculty and undergraduates.
Through hands-on experimentation and interactive Wednesday Seminars featuring guest speakers, you will develop practical research skills and a solid understanding of scientific inquiry. The program culminates in a Research Symposium, where interns present printed posters summarizing their work, reinforcing effective scientific communication.
Location: University of Texas at Austin, TX
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; typically a small cohort of dedicated students
Dates: June 9 – July 16
Application deadline: March 23; Apply here.
Eligibility: Texas residents (priority) who are 15 years or older by June 1; rising sophomores, juniors, or seniors (preference for rising juniors or seniors).
13. The Garcia Center Research Scholar Program – Stony Brook University
The Garcia Center Research Scholar Program offers an intensive seven-week research experience focused on polymer science and technology, where high school students collaborate with Garcia faculty and staff. As a student here, you will design and execute original research projects, gain proficiency in laboratory techniques specific to polymer materials, and learn how to interpret and present scientific data.
This program emphasizes developing contributions that are competitive on a national scale — students often participate in competitions, publish in refereed journals, or present at conferences. In addition to hands-on laboratory work, the program provides a pathway to continue research through an ongoing Mentor Program during the academic year.
Location: Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Moderately selective; approximately 30–50 students
Dates: June 26 – August 8
Application deadline: March 3; Fill this out to apply.
Eligibility: High school students must be at least 16 on or before July 4; require an unweighted GPA of 95/100 (3.8/4.0) and standardized test scores at or above the 60th percentile.
14. Leadership Institute – Brown University
The Brown Leadership Institute aims to deepen high school students’ understanding of complex social issues and develop effective strategies for advancing social justice. You may choose from a variety of interdisciplinary courses — such as Women and Leadership, Leadership and Social Justice, and Leadership, Law and Social Movements — that explore topics like civic engagement, gender equity, and social entrepreneurship.
The program is offered in two formats: a two-week residential experience on Brown’s Providence campus, and a four-week online experience delivered via Canvas, ensuring flexible access regardless of location. As a student, you will actively engage in discussions, collaborative problem-solving sessions, and practical exercises that help boost your public speaking skills, active listening, and teamwork abilities.
Location: Brown University, Providence, RI (Residential) or Online (via Canvas)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; limited cohorts for interactive learning
Dates:
Residential: June 29 – July 11 | July 13 – July 25
Online: June 23 – July 18
Application deadline: May 9; Apply here.
Eligibility: Grades 9–12, ages 14–18 by June 15; no prior leadership experience required.
15. Pre-College Students, Summer Online – University of Chicago
The University of Chicago’s Summer Online program offers pre-college students a rigorous academic experience that mirrors a full quarter-long course in a dynamic virtual environment. This will give you the chance to explore undergraduate-level subjects — ranging from biology and economics to psychology — through live, interactive sessions that include discussions, group projects, and real-time problem solving.
The program is designed with tailored options: courses specifically for 9th–11th graders and reserved spots in regular undergraduate courses for 11th–12th graders. This ensures a challenging curriculum that meets varying academic levels.
Location: Virtual
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive; select cohorts per course. Explore course options here.
Dates: Equivalent to a full, quarter-long (9-week) course; specific sessions vary.
Application deadline:
Priority: January 22
Regular: March 5
Extended: April 9
Apply here
Eligibility: High school students; 9th–11th graders receive pre-college tailored courses, while 11th–12th graders join undergraduate classes; transcript, recommendation, and essay required.
16. Cornell University – Summer Online Program
Cornell University’s Summer Online Program provides high school students an opportunity to experience Ivy League coursework through an entirely virtual format. As a student, you’ll engage in a fast-paced, immersive academic experience that compresses 15 weeks of college coursework into a summer term.
The curriculum spans a broad range of subjects, including American Sign Language, Anthropology, Applied Economics and Management, Fiber Science and Apparel Design, and Performing and Media Arts, offering insights into diverse academic and career pathways. You can browse through all the available course options here.
Location: Online (via Canvas)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; typically small, competitive cohorts
Dates:
3-week session (June 2 – 20 | June 23 – July 11 | July 14 – August 1)
6-week session (June 23 – August 1)
Application deadline:
Session 1: May 5
Session 2 & 6-week Session: May 19
Session 3: June 16
Apply here
Eligibility: Rising/current high school juniors & seniors, ages 15–19; strong academic record required.
17. Summer Session – Duke University
This program offers academically qualified 10th and 11th grade students the opportunity to earn college credit by enrolling in Duke University courses over a six-week summer term. As a participant, you may choose from a diverse range of courses — including subjects like human physiology, creative writing, and political and social philosophy.
In this program, you will gradually learn to analyze complex topics through interactive lectures, group discussions, and structured assessments, gaining valuable insights that bridge high school studies and college-level coursework. The program is available both as on-campus courses for local commuters and online options for non-commuters and international students.
Location: Online
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Select, competitive cohorts
Dates: June 30 – August 11 (online courses meet June 30 – August 8; final exams August 9 – 11)
Application deadline: June 16; Apply here.
Eligibility: Current 10th & 11th grade students (2024-2025 school year) who are 16 years old by June 30.
18. NYU Precollege – New York University
NYU Precollege immerses rising 11th and 12th grade high school students in a dynamic college environment, enabling them to earn college credits while experiencing life as an NYU student. You will gain the opportunity to explore a wide range of subject areas, from media studies and creative writing to computer programming and environmental science — all taught by distinguished NYU faculty in courses that mirror the rigor of undergraduate classes. You can browse through all course options here.
The program offers access to campus resources, including libraries, tutoring services, and student support networks, whether students commute or live on campus. Students engage in collaborative projects, interactive lectures, and discussions that help them develop critical thinking and academic skills essential for success in higher education.
Location: New York University, New York, NY (Residential or Commuter)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective, limited spots available
Dates: July 2 – August 13
Application deadline: June 16; Begin your application by filling out this form.
Eligibility: Rising 11th and 12th grade high school students with a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
19. Veritas AI – AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase
The Veritas AI Fellowship offers ambitious high school students a comprehensive 15-week program to explore artificial intelligence through independent research projects. As a participant, you will engage in collaborative learning and one-on-one mentorship with AI professionals, deepening your practical coding skills in Python. This fellowship will challenge you to design and execute projects that integrate AI with other disciplines, ultimately culminating in a publication and a public showcase of your work.
This immersive experience helps students develop critical problem-solving, research, and technical skills while building a global network of peers passionate about AI. The program is ideal for those who have either completed the AI Scholars program or already possess foundational experience with AI concepts.
Location: Virtual
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective cohorts (varies by session)
Dates: Multiple 15-week cohorts throughout the year (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter)
Application deadline: Varies depending on cohort. Apply here.
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students; applicants should have completed the AI Scholars program or demonstrate experience with AI concepts and Python.
20. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program offers extensive 1-on-1 research opportunities for high school students across a broad range of subject areas that you can explore as a high schooler.
The program pairs high-school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project. At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can find more details about the application here.
Location: Remote (Virtual)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort sizes vary
Dates: Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year; multiple cohorts throughout the year (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter).
Application deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November); Apply here.
Eligibility: Currently enrolled high school students; accepted candidates typically have an unweighted GPA of 3.3/4.0; no previous field-specific knowledge required.
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